Inside the Industry - Part 3: The Artist

Rising Smooth Jazz star Phil Denny.

A year ago I was having a conversation with floral designer/concert promoter/raconteur Bernie Scott, when he threw a name at me that I wasn’t familiar with:  Phil Denny.  “Phil’s real good,” Bernie was quick to say.  Since I’d come to trust Bernie’s ears after all the years he brought in top notch talent for “Smooth Jazz at South Shore” in Michigan City, I decided to give Phil’s debut CD, Crossover, a serious listen.  Two words:  Bernie’s right.

Phil’s first single, “Push,” has been in high rotation here since SmoothJazzChicago.net launched in mid-November.  I also had the pleasure of meeting Phil in October when he was part of Peter White’s band at the Montrose Room and Prairie State College, where he more than held his own.  Equally impressive about him was that, backstage, he hit me with some very good questions about our business—where were are right now, where we’re headed, what a new artist needs to do to move up to the next level.  In other words, he's more than just your average camera-friendly face and sweet sounding horn. 

My first impression of Phil Denny was ALL positive.  He’s just the type of artist we need to move the genre forward the next five-ten years.  And now, we get to ask him some questions.

RO:  Ideally, what would you, an artist, like from radio, be it over-the-air or internet?  If you could program your own radio station, what would you do differently?  What is radio doing right?

PD:  I think it is great that we have on-going support for the genre at radio despite the loss of most of our terrestrial stations. The rise in internet radio programming accompanied by the support of the listeners proves there is a shift in the way in which listeners get their smooth jazz fix.  Access to the music is key in a "now" culture.  Continuing to offer a broad palette of artists that bring diversity to the format is essential to growth.  I think internet radio is especially helpful! Artist interviews, segments where new music is featured, themed programming, station sponsored artist showcases and the use of social media to engage the listener are all ideas I would implement if I operated a station.  Radio is doing right by continuing to support the format. In addition, recognizing the trends in how we listen and respond to music.

RO:   What do you expect when you deal with a concert promoter?  A venue?  

PD:  When dealing with a concert promoter or venue agent, I look at it as I would any other business transaction. There should be a certain amount of fact finding involved to identify whether there is a "good fit."  In most cases, the promoter has already done their homework, though it is also equally important for the artist to understand why he/she is being hired. 

Both parties involved must be fair and willing to accept an equal amount of risk.  An open mind helps!  It is important for the artist/promoter relationship to work in unison to achieve the end result. I have found it's best to have a written agreement that outlines the expectations of the promoter and also what the promoter plans to deliver.  Compensation for the performer should also be fair.  Too many times I hear that it costs the artist to play the gig.  While there is value in exposure, the terms should support the artists. 

RO:   What's the one thing in your world as an artist, if you could change, would improve your part of the equation the most?

PD:  More live performance opportunities. As an independent artist, I depend on developing new relationships that will support my music.  The best way to do this, in my opinion, is to be seen and heard live and to interact with the fans on a personal level.  Many of us are closeted and have limited exposure for this reason.  Many of us have started to create our own opportunities by promoting, funding and executing our own concerts.  I feel fortunate to be able to support my radio promotions, and that has helped with my growth.  Next is to play the regional and national stage! 

RO:   What are the things you would most like to see happen in Smooth Jazz/Contemporary Jazz in 2013? 

PD:  We must remember that the listener base is shifting to some degree, and the evolution of music does not slow down.  While smooth jazz listeners are loyal listeners, when reaching a faithful audience those who make key decisions should recognize people are speaking out about change.  With that said, it is my hope that a broader palette of artists be introduced both to radio and to the stage.  As an artist, I also feel it would be helpful if festival committees would do a better job making their submission process known to the artists/managers.  It seems as though many decisions are made without a fair selection process.  If there even is a process!

Tomorrow - Part 4:  Radio

~Rick O'Dell ([email protected])

Our Smooth Video of the Day:  Phil Denny makes an appearance on Detroit TV last July.

 

 

Comments

[Art B.]

Mr. Denny made some Great comments, I like the way he would run a station and include listener input, I also like that there was no mention to throw " old chestnuts of 25 years " aside, thus bringing together earlier and currant artists. He is also smart to realize that there is give and take on both ends of concert promoting. I enjoyed the song and video and hope to hear more from Phil in the future !!!